Find your perfect trip

Kanchenjunga FAQ 2025 | Price | Ideal Months | Advice

Kanchenjunga (8,586 m), the third-highest mountain in the world is very attractive. It also forms Nepal’s eastern border with India’s Sikkim. In Tibetan, the name Kanchenjunga indicates ‘five great treasures of snow’.

kanchajunga himalayan sanctuary.jpg

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is an ideal trek. It is suitable for those who have the desire to travel to remote regions of Nepal. Kanchenjunga is a majestic mountain in eastern Nepal. The route for trekking was opened in 1988 AD. This trek also provides a chance to visit the Pathibhara Temple, an important religious site for many Indian and Nepali pilgrims.

But the benefits of the Kanchenjunga Trek make the effort worthwhile. The hike passes through rivers, lush forest trails, quaint villages, and many other places. In addition, you encounter a variety of wildlife, including elusive creatures like snow leopards. You will remember this experience for the rest of your life.

The trail goes northwards to Ghumsa, where it climbs to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp (5143 m), going through a fantastic high alpine landscape. It then proceeds to the east via 2 passes and continues to the Yalung Base Camp (4500 m). Then the trail goes back south to Taplejung, the starting and ending point of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek.

Permit required for Kanchenjunga Trekking

Some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world can be found in the pristine and isolated Kanchenjunga region. Trekking routes in the Kanchenjunga provide breathtaking views of the valleys, mountains, and glaciers. Trekkers can discover more about the culture and way of life of the locals in this isolated area by touring the nearby villages.

 

Price of Permits: Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Permit fees for foreigners are $20 for the first week and $25 starting the following week. You can pay in US dollars or the equivalent amount in Nepali currency to obtain it. Please go to the website of the Nepali immigration department for additional details.

Himalayan Sanctuary Adventure

Project for  (KCAP)
The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project is overseen by the Nepal Army (KCAP). It was founded in 1998 with the goal of safeguarding the  area. Therefore, in order to trek in the Kanchenjunga region, a permit from KCAP is also needed. The permit costs Rs. 2000. This permit has no time restriction.

Necessary paperwork to obtain the permit
Finding a group of hikers is the first step. They are available via a travel agency or online. Finding a reputable travel agency that can assist you with the paperwork and obtaining the permit is the next step.
Obtaining the necessary paperwork for the permit is the next step after identifying a group and an agency. The following is the list of documents:

⦁ A duplicate of your passport
⦁ Two current passport-sized photos
⦁ Policy for travel insurance
⦁ Report on Vaccinations and Travel Plans
⦁ Coverage Information for the guide
After your travel agency completes the necessary paperwork, you will receive your permit to trek the Kanchenjunga.

Accommodation during the  Trek

Lodges or teahouses with basic facilities such as beds, blankets, and pillows are accommodation types during the  Trek. The availability of attached bathrooms is there in the lower regions only.  As you go higher, the bathrooms are outside the teahouses. The additional facilities like using Wi-Fi, charging electronic devices, laundry, hot shower, etc. Need to pay an extra.

Meals during the Trek

The 3-course full-board meals are provided during the  Trek. Meals options are limited but  Dal-Bhat is the primary option.

Some of the items available in Lodge are mention below.
Breakfast: Porridge, Chapati, Pancake,tibetan bread Toest with Butter/Jam Muesli
Lunch and Dinner: Dal Bhat, Mo:Mo, Thukpa, Fried Rice, Noodles, Potato Dishes, Tibetan bread with Curry, Plain Rice with Curry,
Snacks and Drinks: Energy Bars, Chocolates, Biscuits and Cookies, Tea, Coffee, Hot Leamon, Can Juice

Drinking Water during the Trek

In Lower Places here will be Bottled water, and if you go higher there will be option either Tap water, and boiled water for  drinking water during the  Trek. Pay an extra cost for drinking or  boiled water at teahouses or lodges or buy bottled water as a preference. For safe drinking water, carry water purification kits and a water bottle for ease.

Internet and Phone Networks during the Trek

Internet and Phone networks are stable mostly in the lower regions. as you go higher regions, networks are unstable. For the use of Wi-Fi, pay an additional cost at teahouses.

Best Season for the Trek

Spring (Mar – May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) are the best seasons for the  Trek. The clear weather, stable temperatures, awesome panoramic vistas, and comfortable trekking trails make these seasons ideal for this trek.

The rainy (Jun – Aug) and winter (Dec – Feb) seasons are not ideal due to unpredictable and unstable weather and temperature. The trekking trails are slippery, muddy, or snowy, and the availability of accommodations is limited.

Trek Difficulty

Kanchenjunga Trek

The highest elevation during Kanchenjunga Base Camp  which lies at (5,153 m). Everest Base Camp  Trek is difficult considering its ascends and descends, high elevations, daily long hours of walking, rough trails, and limited availability of teahouses or lodges. Also, the chances of getting altitude sickness are common. Thus, acclimatization rest is essential. With proper preparation, this trek is possible.

Kanchenjunga Trek Route

Biratnagar (100m); drive to Basantpur (2200m), 120km/6h.
Chauki (2700m)
Gupha Pokhari
Dobhan(660m)
 Mitlung (890m)
Chirwa (1185m) 
 Sekathum (1640m)
Amjilasha (2490m) 
 Gyabla (2730m)
Ghunsa (3430m)
Ghunsa
Kambachen (4040m)
Lhonak (4790m) 9km/650m
Pangpema Base camp (5140m)
Ghunsa (3430m) .
Sele Lapass (4500m) 8km/1100m/6h.
Tseram (3870m)& cross Mirgin La (4480m) 7km/400m/-1000m/8h.
Ramche (4620m) 7km/650m, Octangand Yalung Glacier, walk 7h.
Tortong (2995m) 15km/-1500m/7hr
Yamphudim(2070m) 12km/600m/-2000m/7h
Khebang (1740m) 9km/900m/-1200m/7h.
Phakholing (800m) 14km/ 300/m/-1000m/
Tharpu/ (1600m) 6km/1200m/-300/4
Bhadrapur, 190km/9h
Kathmandu (1330m)

What are the symptoms of altitude sickness ?

Altitude Sickness is common in the  Trek. To prevent it, acclimatization rest is essential. Thus, utilize rest days properly to adapt to the surroundings.

Symptoms of altitude sickness are

  • Headache
  • Lethargy
  • A drop in performance
  • Loose of motion
  • Insomnia
  • Appetite loss
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting.

How can I Avoid Mountain Sickness While Trekking In Nepal ?

  • Stretch and warm up before trekking.
  • Stay hydrated with regular water intake.
  • Ascend gradually and rest well.
  • Avoid salt, alcohol, and smoking.
  • Urinate frequently.
  • Descend if feeling unwell.
  • Consult guides for medicine

Inform your guides if you experience any symptoms during the trek.

How difficult is kanchenjunga Trek ?

kanchenjunga trek

Kanchenjunga Trek is demanding due to its challenging terrain, daily long hours of walking, high elevations, several ups and downs, and rugged trails. Thus, a strong fitness level is a key factor for this trek. Therefore, we recommend trekkers participate in physical exercises and short hikes for a few months, and necessary physical check-ups before commencing this trek.

Travel Insurance during the Trek

Travel Insurance is a safety tool for trekking in the mountains. It should cover all emergencies including medical costs, loss of goods, flight delays, evacuation, and high elevations above 5000 m. getting travel insurance is beneficial. Please Check out FAQ for more information.

Guides and Porters during the Trek

Guide and  Porters are optional but for a comfortable trekking experience hiring a Guide and porter is the ideal decision. Our guides and porters are professional and have lots of experience in the mountains. Our team ensures trekkers’ safety as it is the top priority.

What should I pack for the Trek ?

Below equipment list is only a guideline. The personal items are of individual interest and choice. you can choose from your preferred brands using your expertise. You can also shop the given equipment and clothing at a reasonable price at stores in Thamel, Kathmandu. The most important fact that one should keep in mind is that one should have enough clothes to tackle the cold weather in the Himalayas.

Upper Body – Head / Ears / Eyes

  • Sun hat
  • Wool or synthetic hat that covers the ears
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Headlamp
  • Neck warmer

Hand

  • Liner gloves
  • Heavier shell gloves

Core Body

  • T-shirts (2)
  • Lightweight expedition thermal tops
  • Fleece jacket or pullover
  • Water/windproof shell jacket (Preferably breathable fabric)
  • Synthetic sports bras (for women)

Lower Body – Legs

  • Lightweight expedition thermal bottoms
  • Nylon hiking shorts
  • Soft shell and hard shell trekking pants
  • Water/windproof trousers
  • Casual pants

Feet

  • Liner socks
  • Heavyweight socks
  • Waterproof hiking/trekking boots
  • Light shoes/sneakers
  • Gaiters (For monsoon and winter)

Other Essential 

  • Passport and extra passport photos (2 copies)
  • Airline tickets (Please make a copy and leave one at our office in KTM just in case you need to change the date of yours)
  • Durable wallet/pouch for travel documents, money & passport
  • Water bottle/bladder
  • Water purification Iodine tablets
  • Toiletries (Include toilet paper, wet wipes, and liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap)

Medicines and First Aid Kit

  • Extra Strength Excedrin for altitude-related headaches
  • Ibuprofen for general aches and pains
  • Immodium or Pepto bismol capsules for upset stomach or diarrhea
  • Diamox (commonly prescribed as Acetazolamide) 125 or 250mg tablets for altitude sickness
  • Anti-infection ointments
  • Band-aids
  • Lip balm (At least SPF 20)
  • Sunscreen (SPF 40)

Optional

  • Adjustable trekking poles
  • Favorite snacks
  • Cameras (Memory cards, chargers and, batteries)

Fitness Level: This Trip Requires you to be in Good Health with Physically Fitness.

Skills: Your familiarity with the mountainous terrain and previous trekking experience will be plus points.

FAQ

How much does the  Trek cost ?
The cost depend on Number of people and standard of service

Where can I find a permit ?
The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project (KCAP) and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) are the two permits needed for the  trek. KCAP and RAP are available from the Department of Immigration Office in Kalikasthan and the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu. For a trustworthy and deserving trek towards the Kanchengunja region, you can quickly apply for your Kanchenjunga permit through reputed Trekking Agency.

Does trekking in the Kanchenjunga region require a permit ?
Certenly, because the Kanchenjunga region is a restricted area, you require a special trekking permit in order to enter.

Which permits are available for the  Trek ?
The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Permit (KCAP) and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) are the two different kinds of permits.

Does obtaining the permit require joining a trekking group or hiring a guide ?
Indeed, trekking in the Kanchenjunga region requires a minimum of two people and the hiring of a certified guide.

What time of year is ideal for trekking ?
When the weather permits, spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the ideal seasons for trekking in the Kanchenjunga region.

Does obtaining the permit have any age restrictions ?
Although there are no age restrictions, all trekkers should be in good physical condition because of the difficult terrain and high altitudes.

What paperwork is required in order to apply for the permit ?
To apply for the permit, you will require a copy of your passport, a passport-sized photo, and the help of a registered Trekking Agency.

If I need more time to complete the trek, can I extend my permit ?
Extensions might be feasible, but they come with extra costs and government approval

To reserve your  Trek with us, simply Contact us. For a successful Trek,